Breaking Education Policy: Federal Ministry Of Education Explains Why Under-16 Students Are Excluded

This position was reiterated on Monday by the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, during the 2026 Policy Meeting on Admissions into Tertiary Institutions held in Abuja.

According to the Minister, the policy is the result of extensive consultations with stakeholders in the education sector and is intended to balance accessibility with academic preparedness.

He explained that while the government acknowledges the existence of exceptionally gifted students, such cases must be handled under strict and clearly defined guidelines to protect the integrity of the education system.

“Following extensive consultations and policy reviews, government has maintained sixteen years as the minimum age for admission into tertiary institutions,” he said.

He added that admissions carried out outside the Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS) of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board are illegal and will not be recognised.

Alausa warned that institutions that violate the approved admission process risk strict penalties, including possible withdrawal of operating licences.

He stressed that the credibility of Nigeria’s education system depends heavily on maintaining a transparent and lawful admissions process.

“I have resisted many attempts at condoning illegality in the admissions process. Any institution found to have conducted admissions outside CAPS will be held accountable and sanctioned accordingly,” he stated.

The Minister further emphasised that government would continue to enforce compliance strictly, describing it as a necessary step to restore order and credibility rather than a punitive action.

On education reforms, Alausa said the government is accelerating the digitalisation of the education sector, including the adoption of computer-based testing for national examinations.

He also noted ongoing efforts to curb examination malpractice through improved verification systems and stronger supervision measures, in line with global best practices.